I’ve actually enjoyed Euro 2008 so far. Five teams are through to the quarters at the time of writing, and there has been plenty of controversy and drama. And some decent football too. I think Holland have played their best stuff already but will win a quarter final against Sweden or Russia only to exit at the semi-final stage… if they do not get a bit cute against Romania. Holland should let the Romanians win as this will mean they can eliminate Italy and France from the tournament. Holland can beat the winner of a Romania v Spain quarter final, but if Italy or France get through to the quarters, they will only improve. Holland being Holland though, they won’t be able to help themselves and even a reserve team will go for goals against the Romanians, especially given the opportunities their opponents will present having to try and win themselves (unless they are relying on a draw in the other game, which is a risky strategy).

As for the other half of the draw, it looks for all the world like Germany v Portugal in one of the last eight matches. I know the German defence is in a bit of a state, but they will happily play for a draw against a superior footballing side with the midfield doing a lot of defending. Whoever wins that should take care of Croatia or Turkey. So we could see a Germany v Holland final. You can get 6 to 1 at the bookies at the moment on Germany lifting the trophy. If you think they can beat Austria (surely that’s a given!) and Portugal (there’s your gamble) then those are quite decent odds. Croatia and Turkey have both put in some passionate displays, but I don’t think they have the quality to last the course. Mind you, I’d have said the same about Greece four years back.

Anyway, main thing is that the football has rewarded the viewer more than most major finals seem to over recent years. Of course, there’s been the odd dud match, but the Dutch demolitions, the dramas provided by the likes of Spain, Turkey, Italy, Romania and even dear Austria have kept things from becoming as sterile as these things can get.

Looking at the teams that qualified, as opposed to the hosts, the one thing that is remarkable is that out of those 14 countries, any of them are capable of beating anybody if things go their way with finishing and refereeing decisions. Even Greece were robbed against Russia after stinking the place out in their first match v Sweden. And Poland were unfortunate against Germany. Which means that hardly any of the matches are ‘gimmes’.

Of course, once the knockouts come there is always a danger of caution prevailing. But an early goal can change that mindset, so let’s hope for a few of those once the group stages are completed. The general standard of performance makes it a better footballing tournament than a World Cup, albeit less exotic. Still with the variety of national characteristics, there’s still enough diversion to see contrast aplenty.

One thing that strikes me as I write. Is the tournament the weaker for the lack of any involvement from the four British teams and Ireland? In all honesty, I’d have to say it isn’t. Then again I gave up hoping from anything from England in major international tournaments after 1982!